WELSH malt whisky producer Penderyn is in high spirits after being awarded protection under a post-Brexit government scheme.

The company’s single malt Welsh whisky is now officially under the protected geographical indication (UKGI) status. 

The scheme covers food, drink and agricultural products with a geographical connection or that are made using traditional methods.

Company chief executive Stephen Davies said: “The achievement of UKGI status for single malt Welsh whisky is a significant milestone for Penderyn as a producer, and also for the wider Welsh whisky industry.  

“It assists in safeguarding both the quality of the product and also its source of origin. 

“It’s an exciting step forward and one that puts focus on an industry that has been growing steadily over the last 20 years,” Mr Davies said.

This is the first new British spirit to achieve protected status since the scheme was launched and also becomes Wales’s first GI spirit.

Welsh Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths said: “It is brilliant news single malt Welsh whisky has joined the Welsh GI family with it’s name now protected.

“The Welsh whisky industry continues to go from strength to strength, playing an important role in the food and drink sector here in Wales.”

Single malt Welsh whisky is now the 20th member of the Welsh GI family of products, joining other produce such as Anglesey sea salt, Welsh lamb, beef and leeks. 

The UKGI scheme was established at the beginning of 2021, following Britain’s withdrawal from the EU, and ensures certain food and drink products can continue to receive legal protection against imitation and misuse.